Category: Education

Diversity Month: Creating Opportunity and Inclusion in the Cannabis Industry

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 9, 2021

April is Diversity month, a month to recognize the rich and unique cultures and backgrounds that make up our society. It is also a time to draw attention to the need to create opportunity and inclusion for all people. This is especially important when it comes to the cannabis industry. The ball is rolling for legalized cannabis in the United States, however the majority of those who are benefitting are not those who have suffered the greatest impacts of cannabis criminalization.

The War on Drugs notoriously and negatively affected minority populations. Last year, the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act was introduced to federally legalize marijuana and implement social justice reform programs to those communities most affected by cannabis prohibition. This year, in 2021, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) have placed cannabis policy change at the federal level as a top priority. Senator Booker announced on Twitter on March 22nd that “Legalizing marijuana is necessary to right the wrongs of our failed drug war and end decades of harm inflicted on communities of color. But that alone is not enough – we must also expunge records and lift up people who were unfairly targeted in the drug war.”

Published research has assessed five areas of social justice related to cannabis prohibition as:

Expungement of previous arrests and convictions for cannabis crimes that are no longer illegal.

Consequences of cannabis-related offenses in a cannabis-legal environment.

Diversity of the cannabis legal industry.

Funding of equity and/or restorative justice programs for those communities most affected by cannabis prohibition.

Risks of cannabis legalization negatively impacting the populations that most suffered under the legacy of cannabis prohibition.

During this diversity month, there are minority-owned cannabis businesses you can look to promote and support. As well, there are organizations that are working to improve cannabis industry inclusion and repair the harm that the war on drugs has had on communities. To fulfill a goal of Realm of Caring (RoC) to educate the community, here are some resources available to you to learn more about some of these organizations and current plans for cannabis legislation.

Last Prisoner Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cannabis justice reform and believe that those who are able to profit from the legal cannabis industry have a responsibility to help release and rebuild the lives of those who have suffered from cannabis criminalization. Watch RoC’s interview with Managing Director, Mary Bailey here.

Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP) is a nonprofit with a mission to unite and mobilize the voice of law enforcement in support of drug policy and criminal justice reforms that will make communities safer by focusing law enforcement resources on the greatest threats to public safety, promoting alternatives to arrest and incarceration, addressing the root causes of crime, and working toward healing police-community relations. LEAP is a sponsor of the MORE Act. Watch RoC’s interview with Lt. Nick Bucci about the MORE Act here.

Asian Americans face unique issues relating to cannabis use and acceptance due to differences in history, culture, and social stigmas. Asian Americans for Cannabis Education (AACE) connects and empowers Asian communities to educate the public on cannabis issues, news, and policy affecting Asians worldwide. Learn more here.

Females to the Front is a national and international platform working to support women in the cannabis industry. Their goal is to ensure that the cannabis industry has gender parity and female founders have the tools in their toolbox they need to grow and raise. Learn more here.

Realm of Caring Foundation (RoC), is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that was established by parents in 2013 to support families who were out of medical options. By creating educational resources, conducting research, and assisting families with data-rich answers to their questions, RoC continues to be a leader in the cannabinoid (cannabis/hemp) field. RoC’s no-cost Care Team has served more than 100,000 clients worldwide and supports a network of over 2,000 medical professionals. To learn more about participating or to donate to this cause, visit www.realmofcaring.org or call (719) 347-5400.

April 7th remembered as Charlotte Figi Day in Colorado House and Senate

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 8, 2021

Colorado Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado General Assembly declared April 7th to be forever known as Charlotte Figi Day in 2020. This April 7th, 2021, Coloradans remembered Charlotte, who passed just a year ago at the young age of 13.

Colorado Legislators took pause on Legislative Day 054 in both the House and the Senate to pay tribute to Charlotte and her family and what she accomplished in her short life for millions across the globe.

Representative Hooton and Representative Ransom celebrated the perseverance it took to get legislation passed to allow cannabis use for chronic and debilitating conditions.

Senator Gonzalez and Senate Minority Leader Holbert recognized Charlotte in that she “impacted millions of lives in Colorado and across the globe as a cannabis pioneer patient”, noting that “Charlotte was the inspiration for Realm of Caring, a nonprofit established to guide families through their healing journey with cannabis-based medicine.”

See the full clips below:

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Eight Years in the Making: Realm of Caring’s Impact Over Time

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 7, 2021

Founded in 2013, Realm of Caring (RoC) is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization who serves anyone in need of more information about cannabinoid therapies. Through revolutionary research, innovative education, and life-changing grants, RoC seeks to facilitate and encourage the mainstream acceptance of transformative, plant powered therapies to benefit individuals and families and serve healthcare providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries. Since becoming a formal non-profit in 2013, RoC has cherished a vision that has remained unchanged: the belief that the quality of life matters.

The impact of RoC knows no bounds. Individuals have been helped globally, in these last 8 years, to find that quality of life through research, education, increasing access to, and one on one support with cannabinoid therapy.

The Observational Research Registry (ORR) with Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has included 4,000 participants over time, providing 5 million data points. These significant findings have paved the way for clinical trials, helped companies to determine how their products are helping people, and informed millions on the benefits of cannabinoid therapy. The first paper based on this research was published in 2020 finding that 77% of users attributed positive effects to the medicinal use of cannabinoids.

The data accumulated over the past eight years has informed quality education. This education has been delivered through many mediums by Realm of Caring to help medical professionals assist their patients, dispensaries responsibly serve their customers, legislation pass at state and federal levels, and consumers make informed decisions about their health.

Realm of Caring has played an important role in helping to increase access of cannabinoid products to customers. One way they are able to do this is through providing grants and products to those who cannot afford the high cost of cannabinoid therapy. Realm of Caring has given away almost $3 million to clients in need since the Realm Cares program’s inception in April, 2015; a number that will hopefully continue to grow over time.

Along with providing financial support, Realm of Caring offers the best resource to those who are looking for success with their cannabinoid therapy – time. Over 350,000 inquiries have poured into the call center and we now have more than 67,000 clients. Over 2 million minutes have been spent on the phones with individuals worldwide, looking for support and resources. This is a service that has been and will hopefully remain available for free. The support services offered to clients include administration suggestions based on published data, pulling information based on peer-reviewed research, and taking the time so each individual may find success. Oh, and let’s not forget that RoC has aided 22 states in passing cannabis legislation!

What Realm of Caring has accomplished so far, could not have been possible without the loyalty and dedication of their donor base. The generosity over the years has contributed more than $10.1 million in contributions and in-kind gifts. Overhead costs are able to remain low with a small but mighty team. An average 82% of the funds contributed go directly to programs and services since inception. This ensures that the majority of the money collected goes straight to collecting and improving research, furthering education, and giving back to the community in financial need.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

RoC has a handful of initiatives that they know will have a monumental impact on their clients and the cannabis and hemp industries.

Huge data initiative to make sense of and make available the 5 million+ data points and share findings with the community and industry. RoC’s demographics have changed significantly and they believe they are sitting on predictive data that can help determine future trends. The only way to find out is to dig deep. RoC has hired a team of data scientists and engineers to help, and are happy to report that they are 6 months into the most ambitious effort they have ever undertaken. They are interacting with the data on dashboards and have gotten a glimpse at the powerful insights, but this endeavor needs significant investment.

Increasing participation and retention in the second version of the JHU registry that is a better user experience and a shorter, more impactful survey is a goal of RoC in the future. They also need more cannabis and hemp brands participating in this research allowing for more health outcomes and insights on their products. RoC recently brought on a new Research Director to lead this charge.

Roc wants to reactivate and remove the waitlist for the Realm Cares grant program. People are in need more now than ever before. RoC also needs to recruit more brand giveaways like the campaigns they have run with Aspen Green, Charlotte’s Web, and Stratos. Stratos is the perfect case study; they increased their market share of the registry data over 39% after initiating this program that also gives them a tax break* and a place to give aging inventory. Win, Win, Win.

The industry needs a meaningful and data driven education platform that encompasses the wealth of practical knowledge and data that RoC has collected over the past 8 years. RoC aims to expand services in this area. The goal is to make a learning program so informative, engaging and user friendly that individuals will seek their services above all others.

If you are feeling inspired and wish to contribute to RoC’s initiatives, fill out this form and a RoC team member will get back to you!

Realm of Caring has been featured on:

*check with your tax accountant on in-kind donation of hemp products.

Blog Education

Getting to Know Delta-8-THC

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date February 23, 2021

Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-THC) is a cannabinoid that is growing in popularity due to its accessibility in the hemp industry. It is less psychotropic and chemically more stable than its isomer Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC), while still having its own researched benefits.

Delta-8-THC and Delta-9-THC are practically identical. They have the same molecular formula of C21H30O2; which also happens to be the same molecular formula as cannabinoids cannabichromene (CBC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and the hormone progesterone. Their metabolisms follow the same pathways and they have been researched for their like-benefits, as they both have an affinity for CB1 receptors in the brain. For example, both delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC have been studied for their benefits as antiglaucoma agents and for their ability to reduce tumor growth in rodent models. While their chemical behavior is very similar in most cases, there are a few chemical differences that set delta-8-THC and delta-9-THC apart.

First, delta-8-THC is less psychoactive than delta-9-THC, resulting in individuals being able to tolerate higher amounts per administration. In one study, children with hematologic cancers were able to take considerably higher doses of delta-8-THC than delta-9-THC to prevent vomiting due to antineoplastic treatment. They were administered 480 treatments of delta-8-THC and all participants reported feeling relief. This shows promise for delta-8-THC as an effective, yet inexpensive, option to relieve pediatric cancer patients of their nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, with negligible side effects.

Another difference between the two are their chemical stability and how they are extracted. Delta-9-THC will readily oxidize to cannabinol (CBN) with oxygen, light, or natural aging. Delta-8-THC, on the other hand, is a stable molecule with a long shelf life. Although stable, extracting delta-8-THC is not quite as simple. Delta-8-THC grows in very small amounts in cannabis, however it may be able to be derived from hemp or from CBD; which also makes it technically legal in several states. Many delta-8-THC products are created synthetically by converting CBD into delta-8-THC through a process Dr. Raphael Mechoulam patented, called isomerization.

A few other differences to mention are some advantages that delta-8-THC may have. A study published in 2004 tested small amounts of delta-8-THC in mouse models for its effect on cognitive function and food consumption. Over the course of the study, delta-8-THC showed a tendency to improve cognitive function without the psychoactive effects that are typically associated with cannabis. Food intake increased with a similar performance to delta-9-THC but at a significantly higher rate, showing delta-8-THC as having therapeutic potential for weight disorders.

A question you may be curious about is: will delta-8-THC show up on a drug test that is looking for delta-9-THC? And the answer is, most likely. After cannabinoids are metabolized they are excreted for days. As THC molecules break down in the body, they become smaller molecules known as THC metabolites. The major, excreted glucuronic metabolite through the urine is THC-COOH glucuronide. The urine tests are not looking for the specific THC isomer that goes in the body, they are instead looking for the THC-COOH metabolites that come out.

As with many cannabinoids, much research still needs to be completed and considered on delta-8-THC before we can fully understand its full potential. What we do know is that there is a lot of promise as a less psychotropic alternative to delta-9-THC.

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

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Cannabis legislation a priority to U.S. House and Senate members in 2021

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Cannabis Laws

With the start of the new year, several bills are expected to be introduced by Congress in the name of cannabis legislation and reform. Two congressional bills have, in fact, already been filed but Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL). The first introduced bill is identical to the previously proposed, The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act of 2019. This measure would reschedule Marijuana to a Schedule III with the goal to increase research on the therapeutic effects. The second filed legislation is The Veterans Cannabis Use for Safe Healing Act, to “prohibit the Secretary of Veterans Affairs from denying a veteran benefits due to the use of medical marijuana in states where the substance is legal.”

These introduced bills show promise, but advocates are looking for more change in terms of cannabis reform, especially considering that the Democrats now have control of both the House and the Senate. Last year the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act was introduced to federally legalize marijuana. While this passed through the House it did not pass the Senate. To speak to the re-approach of the bill, Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) stated on his Twitter on February 1st, “We look forward to working with the Senate to refine the bill, advance its core criminal justice and restorative justice provisions, and end the failed federal prohibition of cannabis once and for all.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) has stated that cannabis reform is a priority for 2021. On February 1st he announced on Twitter that “The War on Drugs has been a war on people, and particularly people of color. Ending the federal marijuana prohibition is necessary to right the wrongs of this failed war.” Schumer is working alongside Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) to release draft legislation in the coming weeks, detailing the proposed policy change at a federal level. Their released, joint statement shows promise for “comprehensive reform to ensure restorative justice, protect public health and implement responsible taxes and regulations.”

Realm of Caring Foundation (RoC), is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that was established by parents in 2013 to support families who were out of medical options. By creating educational resources, conducting research, and assisting families with data-rich answers to their questions, RoC continues to be a leader in the cannabinoid (cannabis/hemp) field. RoC’s no-cost Care Team has served more than 65,000 clients worldwide and supports a network of over 2,000 medical professionals. To learn more about participating or to donate to this cause, visit www.realmofcaring.org or call 1-888-210-3772.

Blog Education

Cannabinoid therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Observational studies and trials in both humans and rodents in recent years have reported the beneficial use of cannabinoids in the form of cannabidiol (CBD) cannabis and hemp extracts as a therapeutic potential for ASD. In addition to being beneficial, these studies have also reported that, even in adolescents, the side effects of the cannabis extracts were either nonexistent or less frequent than those who reported drugs that are traditionally used for ASD, ADHD, sleep disorders, or epilepsy.

When considering ASD, there are currently no defined drugs or psychotherapeutic approaches capable of extensively improving the quality of life, social skills, and cognitive functioning of the most severe cases. While the currently available drugs may mitigate certain symptoms, the effectiveness is, reportedly, limited and may have undesirable side effects. So, how is it then, that cannabinoid therapy may work differently with the body to possibly provide therapeutic benefit? To understand the difference of cannabinoid therapy in comparison to the available, conventional treatments it is helpful to first gain an understanding of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) these plant cannabinoids are interacting with.

The ECS is the largest neurotransmitter system in the body, involved in regulating nearly every physiological process. It is composed of two receptors called CB1 and CB2 receptors, endocannabinoids, and metabolizing enzymes. Two key endocannabinoids have been identified as Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids are responsible for activating the CB1 and CB2 receptors that are found throughout our bodies and brains. Once endocannabinoids activate these receptors, physiological actions take place.

Research has shown that one thing individuals with ASD have in common, is that AEA levels are more reduced than in non-ASD individuals. This is a concept known as clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CED), a theory presented in 2001 and more thoroughly explored in 2004, where decreased AEA levels were found to be associated with a lower pain threshold, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), gastrointestinal disorders, and inflammation.

When experiencing a deficiency of endocannabinoids, such as decreased AEA levels, research suggests the benefit of naturally increasing levels with the modulating cannabis compound, CBD. By supplementing with phytocannabinoids, like CBD, we may be able to mimic the action of those endocannabinoids to fill in gaps of deficiency, which means those decreased levels may become normalized.

Since discovering this connection between decreased AEA levels and ASD, it has been shown that AEA modulation may potentially improve some aspects of behaviors, such as anxiety, without affecting social behaviors. There have even been suggestions that increasing AEA activity at CB1 receptor sites may actually lead to prosocial behavior. AEA modulation has also been linked as an important role in those with epileptic conditions.

In addition to modulating AEA levels, CBD has been researched for its modulating benefits in other physiological processes. This includes how effectively our body may facilitate the serotonin it creates, allowing for more regulation of our moods. It also includes the shifting of glutamate and inhibitory y-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which may regulate excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain. Due to the many processes CBD may modulate, participants in studies have seen a reduction in anxiety, cognitive impairment, and discomfort factors as well as an increase in the processing of emotional information.

Getting started with cannabinoid therapy can be overwhelming, especially when considering a neurodevelopmental disorder as complex as ASD. Most of the evidence of the efficacy of CBD with ASD comes from anecdotal and observational data; so although findings conclude that the cannabinoid is safe and may provide relief for associated symptoms, there is plenty of room for further clinical research to explore the full therapeutic potential of CBD, as well as the ability of other cannabinoids to potentiate its ability.

If you are seeking data-driven answers to your questions about this cannabinoid therapy and ASD, Realm of Caring (RoC) can help. RoC has 8 years of collected data and research based on individuals utilizing plant-based therapies. They can guide you through product selection, dosing and administration, how to talk with your doctor, and the results individuals are realizing.

The RoC Care Team is here to assist. They care a lot about helping you to find success. Reach them by calling (719) 347-5400, emailing info@realmofcaring.org, or by scheduling appointment.

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Disclaimer
The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

Blog Education

Three Things to Know About Terpenes

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date February 3, 2021

Here at Realm of Caring, we strive to educate our clients on the science behind cannabis. One of the most popular questions we get is, “What is a terpene?”. Terpenes play an important part in cannabinoid therapy as they may enhance therapeutic effects. In an effort to get you to know more about them, we have here the three things to know about terpenes.

#1. What is a Terpene?

To put it in simple terms, terpenes are compounds produced by plants such as fruits, trees, herbs, and a variety of other plant species that are responsible for determining their distinct scents. Terpenes are so abundant in nature that they form the largest group of plant chemicals. They are commonly used for food flavoring, cosmetic products, and as a natural folk medicine. Of all of the plants known to man, cannabis has more terpenes than any other, having over 100 identified.

#2. What do Terpenes do?

Found in the flowers, roots, and leaves, plants use terpenes as a defense mechanism to protect themselves from the environment and predators. They release a strong odor and flavor that is intended to ward off certain insects or herbivores. Not only do they play a role in protecting plants, but research shows terpenes to have multiple health-promoting properties in humans. Many individuals will look for cannabis strains with specific terpenes for specific conditions. The therapeutic properties of terpenes combined with the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids may enhance the overall therapeutic effect that the cannabis plant can offer. This combination, known as the entourage effect, can improve effectiveness due to increased bioavailability and affinity to certain receptors. The cannabinoids and terpenes are essentially working as a team to provide optimal relief.

#3. What are the most popular terpenes?

Of the more than 100 terpenes found in the cannabis plant, there are specific ones found in higher concentrations in certain cannabis and/or hemp strains. Below are six of the most popular terpenes found in cannabis and cannabis products, as well as some of their reported benefits.

Myrcene

Reported to have active sedating, potent anti-inflammatory, and analgesic and anxiolytic properties.

Also found in lemongrass, basil, mangos, and thyme.

β-caryophyllene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant properties.

Also Found in black pepper, cloves, hops, rosemary, and copaiba.

α-humulene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Also Found in hops, sage, and ginseng.

Α-pinene

Reported to have anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties as well as aid in cognitive function and as a bronchodilator.

Also Found in pine needles, hops, mint, holy basil, and camphor.

Limonene

Reported to have anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.

Also found in most citrus fruit peels such as oranges, lemon, and lime.

Linalool

Reported to have sedative, analgesic, anxiolytic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anticonvulsant properties.

Also Found in lavender, birch trees, sweet basil, and cinnamon.

There is much research to be done on the many terpenes found in nature and how they react with other compounds and the human body to promote internal balance. Once you know what a terpene is and what it does, you will have a better understanding of how it can enhance your cannabinoid therapy. Give us your thoughts below or direct your questions to a care specialist at info@realmofcaring.org.

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CBD and Hemp: Regulatory Overview, Issues Related to Children, and a Vision for the Future

Post author By Sarah M
Post date January 10, 2021

Legal Regulations of CBD and Hemp

Written by Alex Buscher, Esq.

Founder – Buscher Law

Perhaps nothing in law and pop culture is more misunderstood than cannabis regulation and policy. The aim of this post is to give the reader the background to make informed decisions regarding the real risks when using cannabis products, especially hemp & CBD products, as well as provide a vision for sensible future regulation.

First, “Cannabis sativa L.” (“Cannabis”) is the actual plant, “Marijuana” is the legal definition for a cannabis plant over 0.3% Delta-9 THC, and “Hemp” is the legal definition for a cannabis plant containing 0.3% Delta-9 THC or less. “THC” and “CBD” are just two of many cannabinoids, which are a family of chemicals found in the cannabis plant. There are hundreds of chemical compounds in cannabis, including terpenes, cannabinoids, and bioflavonoids, all having different properties and effects.

Marijuana is still a Schedule I substance federally, meaning there is no accepted medical value according to Congress, and it is illegal in almost all circumstances to possess under federal law. States have passed ballot initiatives and statutes contradicting federal law to allow marijuana use intrastate; however, there is not yet an interstate market for marijuana. Medical marijuana laws offer some protection, even from the federal government, because the Department of Justice is not allowed to pursue prosecutions against those complying with state medical marijuana laws. This same protection does not apply to recreational marijuana.

Hemp was legalized federally in 2018 and many states have also moved to legalize hemp. Although legal federally, not all states legalized hemp (Idaho), and many states have legalized hemp but don’t allow hemp-derived CBD into food or dietary supplement products (California). Other states have legalized hemp and allow all hemp-derived ingredients in foods (Colorado).

When purchasing hemp products, hemp companies generally take the position that it is the consumer’s responsibility to follow the law, and companies provide disclaimers stating this position. Companies are in a tough position because all 50 states regulate hemp and hemp products differently, which makes it almost impossible to comply on a nationwide basis. Police around the country are still seizing hemp and hemp products as marijuana, and there is no shipping manifest database or other regulation on the horizon which will stop this practice.

It is important to understand that hemp companies claiming it is safe to give CBD to children are putting families at risk. Child Protective Services (“CPS”) has taken children from parents for administering CBD and will likely continue to do so. This is because many people, some of whom are “mandatory reporters,” don’t understand the difference between hemp and marijuana, and because many CBD products can cause an individual to test positive on a drug panel. Teachers, nurses, and other professionals are mandatory reporters in many states, meaning they have a duty to notify the state if they believe a child has been given a controlled substance. Additionally, ERs routinely conduct drug screening when an individual is treated. A positive THC result will also generally implicate a mandatory reporting requirement to the state. If a parent plans to administer CBD medically to their child, it is imperative that child has a state medical marijuana card for legal protection.

The FDA has the opportunity to solve the issue of federal illegality of ingestible CBD products nationally by allowing CBD and other hemp-derived ingredients in food and dietary supplements. Until hemp-derived ingredients are allowed in food, a continuous conflict between state and federal law will exist. There will also be little uniformity in regulation across the states if FDA allows CBD and other hemp-derived ingredients in dietary supplements alone. Additionally, until FDA approves CBD for use in dietary supplements, it is illegal to label any product as such when it contains CBD (or any other hemp-derived ingredient). This is because dietary supplements are entirely a body of federal law and require premarket notification to FDA, or else the product is unlawful. To date, no hemp-derived product has had an NDI (New Dietary Ingredient) notification accepted by FDA. Thus, any hemp company labeling a product as a dietary supplement is breaking federal law.

As you can see, cannabis regulation is complicated, conflicting, and inconsistent. The bottom line is that cannabis derived cannabinoids have huge therapeutic potential and provide many patients with the ability to treat their own conditions, in almost all cases after modern medicine has failed. It is time for the FDA to allow cannabinoids in both food and dietary supplement products with safe regulation, including the following: recommended serving sizes; required testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins; and ensuring current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) are followed.

Take action, call your representatives, and get involved!

Watch our Q & A with Alex Buscher!

If you have any questions about this topic, a Realm of Caring Care Specialist is here to help. Call us at 719-347-5400 option 1, email us at info@realmofcaring.org, or visit our website and sign up for a free client account at www.realmofcaring.org.

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CBD for Skincare

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date January 4, 2021

Recent years have seen a boom in skincare and makeup products that incorporate CBD oil. And it’s little wonder–CBD is often marketed as a miracle oil, capable of clearing up acne, turning back the clock on wrinkles, and more. But what is the truth behind the careful branding? Let’s take a look at 3 myths and 3 facts about CBD skincare, so that you can make an informed decision on incorporating CBD into your skincare routine.

MYTH: CBD is proven to treat acne

Some studies have shown that CBD might be effective in reducing the production of sebum, but it’s not yet proven an effective treatment to acne. Although it certainly seems that many of CBD’s properties could help reduce breakouts, more research is needed to state anything definitively. However . . .

FACT: Studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties

CBD can help reduce redness and inflammation, soothing irritated skin and potentially diminishing the visibility of breakouts. While most scientists tend to agree that more studies are needed to determine its effectiveness in treating acne, these soothing properties certainly seem to help with those pesky red spots.

MYTH: CBD is an effective alternative to sunscreen

Although CBD has recently started to show up in the ingredients of various sunscreens, there is not enough research at present to determine whether it has any real benefits when it comes to blocking UV rays. Dermatologists advise you stick to using sunscreen for now. While pairing CBD alongside regular sunscreen isn’t necessarily harmful, using CBD alone could leave your skin vulnerable to damaging rays.

FACT: CBD has anti-aging properties

Like many plant-derived compounds, CBD has antioxidant properties, which help reduce various signs of aging. CBD-based anti-aging creams have been shown to diminish wrinkles, dullness, age spots, and discoloration.

Have you experienced positive results using CBD in your skincare routine? Let us know in the comments!

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7 Easy Steps to More Holistic Health

Post author By Realm of Caring
Post date December 30, 2020

At Realm of Caring, we believe that taking simple, natural steps toward a healthier lifestyle can have a massive impact on your overall quality of life. While holistic methods should not replace medical care, they can work in tandem to make traditional treatments even more effective and help you get the relief you need.

Cannabis is just one tool in your toolbox. Here are 7 steps you can take toward a happier, healthier life.

Better nutrition

It’s easy to balk at the thought of trying to eat healthier. After all, throwing together a sandwich or warming up a microwaveable meal are a lot quicker than traditional cooking! Thankfully, there are plenty of simple ways to spruce up your diet. Try swapping out white or refined bread for whole grain, practice eating your healthy greens first so that you don’t get too full, and set goals to drink more water each day.

Quality sleep

Does quality sleep seem like a thing of the past, exclusive to the preschool nap times of bygone years? It doesn’t have to be! In order to promote more restful sleep, limit activities like exercise, work, and alcohol consumption to earlier in the day. Instead, opt for relaxing activities like taking a warm bath, reading a book, or even watching television, as these can help your body wind down and prepare for a quality night of sleep.

Supplements

It might seem obvious, but taking the right daily vitamins and supplements can really boost your health. 42% of the U.S. are deficient in Vitamin D, despite it being one of the most important vitamins for bone health and immune system support. Vitamin D can often be found in supplements also containing Omega-3 fatty acids, which is another nutrient commonly lacking in Western diets.

Daily exercise

Finding an exercise routine that works for you can be time-consuming, and often people fall out of the habit after only a week or two of trying to get in shape. But exercise doesn’t have to mean an hour at the gym each morning, or a long jog outdoors. Simple changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing leg lifts and other easy exercises while watching TV can make a difference. If harsh weather is getting in the way, try walking laps at your nearest indoor mall.

Meditation

Meditation is one of the simplest and easiest ways to help your body de-stress, and it can be done from the comfort of your home whenever you please. Just turn on some relaxing music and let your stress slip away. If you’re new to meditation, try a guided meditation video on YouTube. There are countless options, so you’re sure to find something to suit your needs.

Yoga and stretching

Practicing yoga offers both physical and mental benefits, making it one of the most powerful tools in your holistic health arsenal! Benefits range from weight loss to improved energy and respiratory health to better sleep! It’s no wonder yoga has become such a popular practice. Many locations offer free classes to seniors or beginners. Find yoga classes near you.

And lastly, cannabis

There are countless ways you can incorporate cannabis into your holistic health routine, so you’re sure to find something that works for you. Register at our website for access to countless resources on CBD, medical marijuana, and more.

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